Former Miss Universe Jamaica Contestant Was 26

Tyra Spaulding, a former Miss Universe Jamaica contestant, has died after documenting struggles with her mental health on YouTube. She was 26.

On the evening of Tuesday, Sept. 23, Spaulding was found dead at her apartment of a suspected suicide, The Gleaner reported, citing the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Corporate Communications Unit (CCU). The 2023 Miss Universe contestant was allegedly discovered hanging in her bedroom by her relatives.

The Miss Universe Jamaica organization shared a tribute on Instagram as they confirmed Spaulding’s death.

“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of the beautiful Tyra Spaulding. 🕊️💙She was a radiant soul and an amazing human being,” the organization captioned a photo of Spaulding. “Her light, grace, beauty and kind spirit touched every life she encountered.” 

“…We at the Miss Universe Jamaica Organization keep Tyra’s family, friends, and loved ones in our heartfelt prayers as we celebrate the beautiful life she shared with us,” the organization added.

Spaulding’s death came after she posted several videos on YouTube speaking about struggling with her mental health.

“I resigned from my 9 to 5 job, but it was a terrible decision because my mental health just took up plummeted,” she said in a video posted on Aug. 31. “And guys, I was at the point where I made a plan to kill myself, so anybody on air, considering [leaving your job] just don’t don’t do it.”

Spaulding revealed in the video that she had previously attempted suicide and was currently receiving therapy with help from her former boss.

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In another video posted on Sept. 5, she said, “I’m fighting for my life over here. I feel like I need to go out and do something because my mind is trying to kill me. And if I do nothing, I am going to die … I am fighting for my life … I’m definitely in a battle right now.”

Spaulding added that she was having suicidal thoughts “every day” and spoke of feeling “overwhelmed.” She also shared her concerns of struggling “to build a sustainable future while working alongside managing being an entrepreneur. 

PEOPLE has contacted the CCU for comment.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org.